The Library

The room wasn't ready when we arrived at 3:30 though the booking said ready by 3. It didn't take too long but was a bit annoying. The room itself was lovely though it was a bit strange to not have a bin and I would have liked more coffee etc. We got a wake up call at 5am which we didn't ask for. When we checked out I brought this up and we were told it was a mistake and the person apologised but I would have preferred if they apologised without me prompting and maybe offered us some kind of compensation. I have issues sleeping so it was really quite disruptive. I did wonder if it was because we were clearly not well off and the place is quite posh. I don't have an issue with someone making a mistake but seems weird not to apologise.

The RIU is a fantastic choice if you are visiting the London Victoria. You can literally see Victoria station when you walk out the front door. Easy walking distance to Buckingham Palace, St James Park, Westiminster Abbey, Big Ben and Trafalgar Square. The hotel is clean, modern and features an in-suite bathroom, ac, a hairdryer and coffee. Ice is available from the bar on the first floor. The breakfast buffet, located right across the street, is vast, featuring hot and cold choices, a toasting station with a ton of bread choices, a fruit bar, cereal bar, juices and coffee. You also have plenty of shopping and dining options around. Also, having access to Victoria station is very convenient. Not only to and from Heathrow, but we took a train to the Crystal Palace Bowl to see Lenny Kravitz on Sat night and then took a train to Brighton Bch the on Sunday. Bright Bch is a must visit in our opinion. Only an hour each way and 70 pounds round trip for both of us. 10 minute walk right through the middle of town and you're at the beach. Lastly, the area is wicked clean and the people are very nice and helpful. We felt safe every where went, even late night. If you are visiting London for the first time like us, you can't go wrong with London Victoria and the Riu.

What a lovely hotel. The common areas and gardens are delightful, but nothing compared to the staff. Super friendly, super helpful.